Ghana 101 - Mobile Phones

Nearly every adult you encounter while in Accra or any major city or village within Ghana is carrying a mobile phone – sometimes more than one. There's a reason for that: They're cheap. Relatively speaking, a new no-frills cell phone will cost about GHC 35; one with all the bells and whistles will run significantly more money, but it's available if that's what you want. And there's no need for expensive "calling plans" as you'd find in North America.

We use SIM chips to obtain a phone number, and top-up cards to add time/ minutes to our phone. Top-ups can be as minimal as 1 cedi at a kiosk or on the street.

There are several different mobile phone carriers – MTN is the largest provider, but there's also Tigo, Kasapa, Vodaphone, Zain, Glo, etc. Whether you're visiting Ghana for a short while or forever, a local phone is the way to go. No need to worry about switching over your calling plan, or unlocking your phone.

MTN cell phones can be used to call North America for just pesawas a minute. When you're done using it, consider donating it to someone who could use it. New mobile phones are readily available in all major cities, and most mobile phone top-up kiosks sell SIM chips if you need one.

Skype is a great way to go to communicate overseas. Using a computer connection you can talk for free or use Skype credit to call phones throughout the world. See the Connections section for more information about phones and calling in Ghana.